Social Policy & Practice dean, Sara S. 'Sally' Bachman, granted another term at Penn School
University's School of Social Policy & Practice Extends Dean Bachman's Tenure
Sara S. "Sally" Bachman, the current dean of the School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) at an unspecified university, has had her tenure extended to June 30, 2031, pending approval by the Board of Trustees. The extension was announced by President J. Larry Jameson and Provost John L. Jackson Jr.
The decision comes after a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a Consultative Review Committee. The committee, consisting of six faculty members, two students, and one alumnus, followed the guidelines outlined in the Faculty Handbook. The evaluation process involved interviews with the dean, numerous meetings with SP2 faculty, staff, and students, solicitation of confidential feedback, and a review of internal data and reports detailing work from across the School.
The Committee's assessment of Dean Bachman's tenure highlights her contributions to academic innovation and faculty and staff development. Specific praise was given for the launch of the school-wide Practice Doctorate in Nonprofit Administration, a certificate in Applied Data Ethics, Law, and the Social Good, and advanced curricular initiatives in philanthropy and climate resilience.
Under Dean Bachman's leadership, SP2 has doubled its sponsored research revenue and reduced tuition dependency. The University's strategic framework, "In Principle and Practice", has been strengthened by her efforts to advance academic excellence at SP2 and expand its faculty, including its first Penn Integrates Knowledge (PIK) faculty appointment.
President Jameson praises Dean Bachman's leadership, citing her contributions to the growth, innovation, resilience, and academic excellence of SP2. Her approachable and inclusive leadership style that fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and care among staff, students, and faculty has also been commended.
The Consultative Review Committee unanimously supported Dean Bachman's reappointment. The Board of Trustees will receive a resolution to reappoint Dean Bachman at its next meeting. Dean Bachman's leadership has enriched the SP2 community intellectually and programmatically, and her tenure at SP2 has been extended to continue this positive impact.
